Handouts for the Webinar Efficiently Licensing High-Quality … · 2017-09-12 · Handouts for the...

NC Division of Social Services and 1 Jordan Institute for Families, UNC‐CH School of Social Work May 16, 2017

Handouts for the Webinar

Efficiently Licensing High-Quality Foster Parents

May 16, 2017

Presenters

Michelle Reines Child Welfare Services Section, NC Division of Social Services

Alice Moore New Hanover County Department of Social Services

Jonathan Rockoff Methodist Home for Children

Produced by Family and Children’s Resource Program, part of the

Jordan Institute for Families UNC‐Chapel Hill School of Social Work

Sponsored by

NC Division of Social Services

Contents Organizational Chart for NC DSS Regulatory and Licensing Services Team The Twelve Skills for Successful Fostering and Adopting Related Resources New Hanover County May 2017 Foster Parent Newsletter (Newswire) Methodist Home for Children MAPP Evaluation Webinar Slides

NC Division of Social Services and 2 Jordan Institute for Families, UNC‐CH School of Social Work Feb. 23, 2017

NC DSS REGULATORY AND LICENSING SERVICES TEAM

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TWELVE SKILLS FOR

SUCCESSFUL FOSTERING AND ADOPTING

The goal of the pre-service training (Trauma Informed Partnering for Permanence and Safety: Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (TIPS-MAPP) or other approved training) and the mutual home assessment with prospective foster/adoptive parents is to prepare individuals and families to make informed decisions about becoming foster or adoptive families. The decision is made with the child welfare agency and is based on the capability and willingness to take on the “role” and develop the skills needed for successful fostering and/or adopting. Foster and adoptive families who make informed decisions and grow in their new roles work best with the agency, birth families and others. These partnerships help children and youth have stability and permanence with a family. The twelve skills for successful fostering/adopting form the basis for all discussions during pre-service training sessions and mutual home assessment discussions. The twelve skills are defined below. Prospective foster/adoptive parents’ strengths and needs associated with each of the twelve skills are documented on the Foster Home License Application (NC Division of Social Services, DSS-5016). Successful foster and adoptive parents must be able to:

1. Know their own family. Assess their individual and family strengths and needs; build on their strengths and meet their ongoing professional needs as a foster or adoptive parent/family. (DSS-5016) Skill 1: Assessing individual and family strengths and needs and building on strengths and meeting needs.

Pre-service training and the mutual home assessment discussions help parents learn what skills they will need to develop to become a successful foster or adoptive family. Learning how to identify and describe their individual and family strengths and needs to others, including the agency staff person working with them is critical. By the end of the Pre-service training and the mutual home assessment process, successful foster/adoptive parents are able to develop a plan (through collaboration with the agency staff member) to meet their ongoing professional needs as a foster or adoptive parent. This process prepares foster/adoptive families to help match their strengths with the needs of families who require services.

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2. Communicate Effectively. Use and develop communication skills needed to provide foster care or adoption services. (DSS-5016) Skill 2: Using and developing effective communication.

Foster and adoptive parents must be able to communicate well. They must be able to interact positively with their family members, neighbors and others in the community. As a foster or adoptive parent, they will be talking with the children in their care about their past families, behaviors and life experiences. They will be expected to maintain open communication with birth parents, children, agency staff and others. They will be expected to communicate with persons in the community to meet the child’s educational, medical, mental health and social needs. As a foster or adoptive parent, they will be asked to express feelings and share information with others who may have different outlooks because of their own histories, ages, cultures, values and abilities. Foster and adoptive parents must possess or be willing to develop active-listening skills and be able to describe feelings and behaviors in simple, clear language.

3. Know the Children. Identify the strengths and needs of children and youth who have experienced

abuse and neglect and recognize how the past trauma impacts the way they experience the world around them.

(DSS-5016) Skill 3: Identifying the strengths and needs of the children placed in the home.

Children who have been abused or neglected come to foster and adoptive families with many strengths. It is important that foster and adoptive parents recognize and support children’s strengths. Children who have been abused or neglected also have numerous needs. These needs are complicated even further when children are removed from their birth families. Foster and adoptive parents must be able to recognize those needs. To learn about strengths and needs, foster and adoptive parents must know how to gather information. They gather information from child welfare workers, former foster parents and the birth family. This information will include observing the child’s development, comparing the child’s abilities with stages of normal development, and knowledge of previous losses and traumatic experiences.

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4. Build Strengths and Meet Needs. Build on strengths and meet needs of children and youth who are placed with them. (DSS 5016) Skill 4: Building on children’s strengths and meeting the needs of children placed in the home.

Foster and adoptive parents must have the necessary skills to identify children’s strengths and needs. They must be able to talk with children about those strengths and needs in words that children understand. Foster and adoptive parents must be able to help children use their strengths to meet their needs. Some needs can be met within the foster or adoptive family. However, often the foster or adoptive parents have to bring in sources from the outside to help them meet the child’s needs. Parents must be able to describe children’s strengths and needs in clear simple language that describes behaviors. Instead of calling an active child “hyperactive,” effective parents say “Jason is unable to sit still and participate in an activity for five minutes.” Parents and professionals agree that focusing on strengths reduces the use of labels such as “fire setter” or “attention deficit disordered.” Labels such as these often follow children for years and may prevent children from forming healthy relationships.

5. Work in Partnership. Work in partnership with children and youth, birth families, other foster and adoptive families, the agency and the community to develop and carry out plans for the child’s continued growth, development, and permanency. (DSS-5016) Skill 5: Developing partnerships with children placed in the home, parents, or the guardians of the children placed in the home, the supervising agency and the community to develop and carry out plans for permanency.

Foster and adoptive parents must work with children and youth, birth families, other foster and adoptive families, the agency and community resources. Foster parents must share information and parenting with birth parents and help birth parents develop their abilities to parent more effectively. Both foster and adoptive parents need to know their roles and responsibilities, as well as how to work effectively with the court, agency staff and community as part of a team.

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6. Be Loss and Attachment Experts.

Help children and youth develop skills to manage loss and attachment and minimize the risk of the child being traumatized again.

(DSS-5016) Skill 6: Helping children placed in the home develop skills to manage loss and skills to form attachments.

Children and youth who are removed from their birth families generally experience significant losses. They need help to go through the grieving process. Successful foster and adoptive parents know the stages of grief are able to recognize grieving behaviors and can use specific techniques to help children manage their grieving behaviors. In order to do that, foster and adoptive parents must have come to terms with losses in their own lives so that they can be “loss experts”, using their experiences to help children manage their losses. Foster and adoptive parents must be able to anticipate how future losses will affect their own families. When children return to live with birth families or go into independent living, families must be able to cope personally with the loss. Foster and adoptive parents must also anticipate developmental grieving which is the grief a child feels whenever he or she is reminded of earlier losses he or she experienced. Children and youth in care also need help in attaching to and trusting others. Foster and adoptive parents need to know specific ways to lessen retraumatization of these children and youth while helping them become attached to them so that they can attach to others later in life.

7. Teach Healthy Behaviors. Help children and youth identify the need and emotion behind their behaviors. Foster and adoptive parents will respond in ways that will teach children healthy ways to stay safe with themselves and others.

(DSS-5016) Skill 7: Helping children placed in the home manage their behaviors.

Children who have been physically abused and sexually abused have experienced tremendous physical and emotional pain. They may channel that pain into behaviors that may be challenging for foster and adoptive parents. Foster and adoptive parents must recognize the feelings and reasons behind the behaviors and be able to help children learn positive ways of getting their needs met. Children who have been physically abused and sexually abused, and neglected may expect that their foster or adoptive parents will use physical force with them. This puts them at risk for even more emotional and physical hurt. Foster and

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adoptive parents must break that cycle by committing to and using discipline methods that help children feel good about themselves. It is important to use alternatives to corporal punishment so that discipline strategies help children feel lovable, capable, worthwhile and responsible.

8. Build Connections. Help children and youth maintain and develop relationships that keep them connected to their pasts. (DSS-5016) Skill 8: Helping children placed in the home maintain and develop relationships that will keep them connected to their pasts.

Most of us have long-standing relationships with friends and family which are very important to us. Children and youth also have relationships with people who have been important to them in their lives. Therefore, foster and adoptive parents must help children and youth maintain these relationships through conversations, letters, phone calls, visits and photographs, and lifebooks. Foster and adoptive parents are expected to help children understand how they came into the child welfare system and what that means in terms of other important attachments in their pasts.

9. Build Self-Esteem. Help children and youth build on a positive self-concept and a positive family, cultural and racial identity. (DSS-5016) Skill 9: Helping children placed in the home build on positive self- concept and positive family, cultural, and racial identity.

Children who have been physically or sexually abused or neglected often blame themselves for their families’ problems. Sometimes it is hard for children in care to feel good about who they are; their self-esteem is low. Rejections from birth families and perhaps other foster and adoptive families contribute to a poor self-image and confusion about who they are. Foster and Adoptive parents must be able to help children and youth understand and feel good about who they are, their birth families and their cultural, racial and religious identities. One way for foster and adoptive parents to help children and youth feel good about themselves is to support and encourage children’s activities and accomplishments. Another way is for foster and adoptive parents to recognize and support a child’s ethnic, cultural and family heritage.

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10. Assure Health and Safety. Provide a healthy and safe environment for children and youth and keep them free from harm.

(DSS-5016) Skill 10: Providing a safe and healthy environment for children placed in the home which keeps them free from harm.

Foster and adoptive parents must be careful to provide a healthy and safe environment for children and youth. Foster and adoptive parents should be aware of the state and local health and safety rules. These rules are designed to protect children and youth from such things as firearm accidents, fires and unsanitary conditions. Foster and Adoptive parents need information from their agency about health and safety rules, including the dangers of secondhand smoke. In addition, prospective parents must understand the importance of close supervision of children and agree to avoid subjecting children to corporal punishment.

11. Assess Impact on Own Family. Assess how fostering or adopting a child or children will affect their own family.

(DSS-5016) Skill 11: Assessing the ways in which providing family foster care or therapeutic foster care affects the family.

Adding a new family member affects every member of a family. It affects how time, finances, space and responsibilities are shared. Foster and adoptive families must show they are able to assess how a new family member will affect family relationships, lifestyle, support systems and resources. They will also have to show how they will solve potential areas of stress and how family members can support each other under stress. Children and youth who have been removed from their birth families bring with them stresses from abuse and losses. They also bring their birth families and child welfare workers into the lives of their new family.

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12. Make an Informed Decision. Make an informed decision to become a foster or adoptive parent. (DSS-5016) Skill 12: Making an informed decision regarding providing family foster care or therapeutic foster care.

Throughout the process of the pre-service training sessions and the mutual home assessment discussions, prospective foster/adoptive parents are self-assessing their strengths and needs associated with the first 11 skills. Once they complete the Profile, the 30 hours of pre-service training, the strengths and needs assessments associated with each of the training sessions, at least two mutual home assessment consultations, and a Partnership Development Plan, they will have enough information to be able to make an informed decision about their readiness to become a foster or adoptive family.

Adapted from Trauma Informed Partnering for Permanence and Safety: Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (TIPS-MAPP, Meeting 1, Handout 2. Children’s Alliance of Kansas, 2013) and PS-Deciding Together: A Program to Prepare Families for Fostering/Adoption, Parent Book 1, “Understanding Foster Care and Adoption Today, 2009 (Both sources available from the Children’s Alliance of Kansas: www.childally.org,).

Relativecaregiversareamazingpeople!Usuallyhavingraisedtheirownchildrentheythrowtheirhatintheringwhenafamilymember’schildisgoingtoenterfostercareandtheyopentheirhomestokeepfamilywithfamily.WearegratefulforALLourrelativecaregivers–wecouldNOTdothiswithoutyou–THANKYOU!!!

A er 25 years and over 50 foster children many of which were part of large sibling groups Clarence and Margaret Fredlaw are biding a fond farewell to their life as foster parents to concentrate on their recently adopted girls as well

as their adult children and grandchildren. Mrs. Fredlaw taught music in New Hanover County schools for 33 years, and Mr. Fredlaw served 30 years with the Wilmington Police Department. A er re rement, they decided it was me for the next chapter in their lives and became licensed foster parents with NHC‐DSS in 1992. The Fredlaw’s have been a staple with our agency...mentoring foster families helping to train many new social workers, and providing love and protec on for every child that has entered their home. When asked about children moving on from their home, Mrs. Fredlaw was quoted as saying (Wilmington StarNews, May 2013), Each me we prepare them to move to the

next place, we miss them for a while and then you realize this is the way it is supposed to be. ou grieve the loss but you move on. ou realize they have got to move on. The NHC‐DSS family will de nitely miss having Mr. and Mrs. Fredlaw as foster parents and wish them nothing but the best in this next chapter.

Thank you for 25 years of service to the children and families of New Hanover County!

THEENDOFANERA:SAYING FAREWELL TO A BELOVED FOSTER FAMILY

N e w s w i r e An Information Resource for Foster and Adoptive Parents

of New Hanover County M a y 2 0 1 7

THEPOWELLFAMILYSusan & LG Powell are nearing the 30 year mark as foster parents for New Hano-ver County children and youth! Susan also serves as the

president of our Foster Parent Association! When they have an opening, which is rare, there are usually social workers jockeying for position to have their child or youth in line to get into the Powell’s home! For all these years, for all the children, for all your patience with us – we say THANK YOU!

THERICHARDSFAMILYAnnette and Bruce Richards will celebrate their 25th anniver-sary of fostering with NHC-DSS next year! Since 1993, the Rich-ards’ have provided long-term

care for siblings and individual children, and have also adopted. They enjoy supporting their fellow foster parents by providing respite care which is truly appreciated. Recently, Annette helped support two former foster siblings reconnect with their birth fam-ily that they had not seen or heard from in over 15 years. Thank you for always being there!

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They say pa ence is a virtue and if so, Pete & Jen Brausch are extremely virtuous foster parents where at long last (nearly

three years) they have begun the adop on process of a sibling pair of boys We’re are so happy for you

Jen has also been instrumental in the collec on of dona ons from local consignment sales which is eventually sorted and stored in the

Foster Pantry. She is also a great spokesperson for our foster parents at various recruitment events. Thank you for being you

THEBRAUSCHFAMILY

SabrinaandPedroRiverahavebeenlicensedforoneyearthismonth!AlthoughPedrospendsmostoftheyearworkinginWyoming,wede initelyconsiderhimpartoftheNHC‐DSS

family.Insuchashorttime,ouragencyhascometodependonSabrinatoacceptlong‐term,

emergency,andrespiteplacements.Inadditiontohertwin18‐year‐oldsonsandher22‐year‐olddaughterwhocomeshomefromcollege

occasionally,Sabrinaisfosteringtwonewborngirlsandpicksuptwoteenagerseveryother

SaturdayfromCrisisLineOpenHouse.Shealsojusthelpeda10‐year‐oldboyandhis2‐year‐oldbrotherreunitewiththeirbirthparents.Thank

youSabrinaforbeingsoamazing!

TonyaLawtonhasbeenlicensedsince2007.Shecametouswantingtofosterchildrenbecauseshehadlovetogiveandacallingto

help.Tonyadidn’tplantoadoptbutshewilltellyouthatlifeisfullofsurprisesandshejumpedattheopportunitytoadoptherdaughtersin2010.Tonya’sgirlswereher irstfoster

placementandstayedwithherforthreeyearsbeforetheiradoptionwas inalized.Tonyahastwoadultsonsthathaveofferedtheirmom

nothingbutloveandsupportonherfosterandadoption

journey.Sinceadopting,Tonyahasstayedactiveasafosterparent.Shehasfostered10

infantsandwasoneofthe irstfosterparentstoparticipateintheintensivereuni icationprogram.Tonyaandherdaughterslovefosteringbabiesandshowereachinfantwithloveandattention.Tonyaisactiveintheadoptionsupportgroupandservesasamentortomanyfosterparents.Sheactively

recruitsfamiliesforourfosterprogram,participatesonthepanelforTIPS‐MAPP

graduation,hasbeeninterviewedbythemediaaboutherfosteringexperience,andvolunteerstohelpfosterparentscareforAfrican‐Americanhair.Tonyaisajoytoworkwithbecauseofhergentle,kind,laidbackpersonalityandeternal

optimism.Thankyou,Tonya!

Mike and Nancy Smith have been licensed since 2013. Since then they have

fostered 25 kids! They are a kind, nurturing family that has always felt a calling to help children in need. They

provide structure and routine, focus on getting kids involved in extracurricular activities and helping them to succeed academically. They often have a house full of boys (except for their daughter,

Madison) and enjoy getting them involved with wrestling since Mike is a wrestling

coach. The Smiths are popular with social workers and known for taking in teens

with challenging

behaviors and sibling groups.

The Smith’s first foster

placement was a sibling group of four! We are grateful to them for opening their hearts and homes

to older children in foster care. One social worker said of Mike and Nancy,

“they are unfazed by the craziness of the foster care system. They have open hearts and love to give. They don’t worry with

all the details- they just see kids that need a safe place to stay and someone to love

them.” Thank you, Mike and Nancy!

Maggie & Scott Warner have a very busy family! Not only do they have two teenage daughters who have incredible interests and talents, they have two adopted sons, a sibling pair who keep Scott and Maggie busy with sports and readiness for pre-school! When they are able they make themselves available to assist with respite and always conscious of recruiting others to begin the foster care journey! Thank you Scott and Maggie!

Barbara Johnson is one of our agency’s more experienced foster parents who has fostered 42 children over the past 14 years and has done numerous respite placements for our agency. Barbara has had children in her home that range from birth to 18 years old and has con nued to be a source of support for numerous children who have aged out of foster care. She is currently in the process of adop ng a 17‐year‐old teenager

BarbaraJohnson&family

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Sharon Perryman has been fostering with NHC‐DSS since 2011 and has seen a total of 18 children pass through her doors. Un l she accepted placement of a teenage girl (later granted guardianship in 2015), Sharon had been almost exclusively a foster parent for newborn babies especially those born posi ve for drugs. Sharon’s daughter and son‐in‐law, Catrina and Jeremy Streba are also foster parents with our agency In February of this year, Sharon accepted placement of three teenage children from South orea. Sharon has been a true shining star with everything she has done and is doing to help these children feel at home. She has even found someone to make them kimchi Thank you for your dedica on to these children and to your con nued commitment to foster

THEPERRYMANFAMILY

Sherry and Seth erardot became licensed foster parents in January of 2015 and accepted their rst placement less than two weeks later. A er nes ng at the NICU with a newborn baby girl for close to one month, they brought her home to meet Seth and Sherry’s two sons (ages 3 and 4 at the me), and Sherry’s teenage daughter. Just over two years later on April 21, 2017, which happens to also be Seth’s birthday, their li le girl became an o cial member of the erardot family. Congratula ons, Sherry and Seth Thank you for being willing to lend a helping hand whether for respite or to entertain children un l a home can be located or long‐term care. ou always nd a way to make our obs easier

THEGERARDOTFAMILY

Ashley and Terry Meares have been licensed with our

agency since May 2016. Soon after becoming licensed they

accepted placement of a large sibling group. They are

currently in the process of adopting a sibling group of 6

children! They were also recent nominees for the Smart

Start Children’s Champion Award. Congratulations

Ashley and Terry for a job well done!

Nadine Nepper was born in Jamaica and raised by her

grandparents from the age of 12. She became a foster parent in 2014 and has fostered seven

children. She currently cares for two children with

multiple developmental and health care needs.

She provides a loving and stable

environment where children can strive

for and learn to be the best they can be. Nadine was recently nominated for Smart Start’s

Children’s Champions for her outstanding efforts on behalf of young children in foster care.

Thank you, Nadine!

Angie and Wes Burman have been licensed for seven years and

have fostered over 20 children during that time. They became foster parents with the hope of growing their family

through adoption. In 2011, Angie and Wes adopted their son, and are in

the process of adopting two more boys who have been in their care for over three years. In January, their

son’s baby brother was born and was placed in their home. Angie is

definitely outnumbered but seems to hold her own quite well in a house of

boys! Angie is also half of the dynamic duo that founded Fostering

Faith, a support group for foster moms. Angie and Wes have helped recruit several foster families and have severed as a mentor to many

more. Thank you for your partnership!

MistyandKelliHerring havebeenlicensedfoster parents for almost 10 years and havehelped to provide a safe and loving home forover 20 children as well as adopted their twosweet and spirited little girls. Their family hasalso seen the addition of another dog, goats,chickens,aminiaturehorse,andmostrecently,a

petpignamedPickles. MistyandKellialwaysansweracall fromDSSandarereadyandwillingtohelpwiththeplacementofachildwhetheremergency,respite,and/orlonger.ThankyouforbeingsoAWESOME!!!

Newswire page 4

AdamandKatherineNicholashavedoneanoutstandingjoboffosteringachildwhohadextensivebehavioral/medicalneedsduetoabraininjury.Theyhavemade

numeroustripstoUNC‐ChapelHillfortreatmentforthisyoungchild.Theyweregreatatworkinginpartnershipwithouragencyandadvocatingtohelpthisyoungchildreceivetheservicesheneeded.Theyhavealsorecentlyadoptedayoungchildwhohasspecialneedsallthewhilefosteringotherchildrenwho

neededplacement.

Mike & Kaitlyn Boscaljon were originally licensed on March 24, 2015, wan ng to

foster to adopt. Since that me they have adopted their son, in the process of

adop ng a daughter and have recently opened their hearts and home to their

son’s baby sister whom they nested with in the hospital a er her birth and cared for her since then. aitlyn has been instrumental in the Fostering Faith support

group for foster mothers, walking down the same path as foster mothers Thank you Mike and aitlyn

THEBOSCALJONFAMILYStanandTrishaArcherhavebeenfosterparentssince2008.Theyhavelovinglyprovidedcarefor21children,includingmanynewbornsexperiencingwithdrawal.Theyprovideafoundationofloveandsupportforchildreninneed.TheArcher’sareincrediblyskilledatsharedparentingand make connections with birth families through theirempathy, kindness and heartfelt encouragement. Theybelieve every parent should have thechance to reunifywith their child and itshows. Stan andTrisha take the time toget to knowbirth parents by showing agenuine interest in themandadesire tomakeaconnection.Theyoftenencourageother fosterparents toattendcourt anduse the timewaiting for theircase tobecalled to talk with the birth family andget to know them. Trisha serves as the Vice President ofFosterParentAssociationandisactiveintheFosteringFaithsupportgroup.TheArchersserveasmentorstomanyfosterparents and often speak on panel night at TIPS‐MAPPgraduation.Theyaretheparentstofourchildren,ages5‐9,andtheystayonthego,oftenwithanewbornintow.Theyaretruepartnerstoouragency.Thankyou,StanandTrisha!

THEARCHERFAMILY

Holly and Ryan O’Neill have been foster parents since 2012. They came to us with hopes of adopting but have been true partners as foster parents. They have fostered 18 children, all ages 0‐5. They fostered and helped transition seven children home before finally adopting their son in October 2014. The following year, they adopted their daughters. Holly and Ryan will both tell you that od always has a plan and they believe that everything has worked out ust as it was supposed to. The O’Neill’s are both teachers and feel a true calling to open their hearts and home to children in need. They offer structure, routine, stability, love and a whole lot of patience.

Thank you, Holly and Ryan

Ben Rose and Will Wilkinson have been fostering for almost a decade. They have fostered children and adopted three ages , and . They parent with great compassion, empathy and insight. Their humor and ability to eep things in perspec ve are s ills that eep them grounded and e ec ve. They are founding members of our adop on support group where they are comfortable sharing their own paren ng triumphs and defeats with others to build trus ng networ s and a place of community and understanding. Than you en and Will We hope you will con nue

fostering for another decade

LINKS Group New Hanover County DSS

“Annual Aged-Out Youth Panel” May 3, 2017 4:30-6:00pm

Group is held the 1st Wednesday of each month from 4:30-6pm at New Hanover County DSS

Open to current and former foster youth, ages 13-21

THE NEXT FOSTER PARENT ASSOCIATION MEETING WILL FEATURE

Liz Constantinou

with Coastal Horizons The Birds, Bees and Sexting:

Updating “The Talk” for the Next Generation MONDAY, MAY 15TH

6:30-8:30PM Pine Valley Methodist Church Activity Center-2nd Floor

3788 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28403 CHILD CARE PROVIDED

FOSTER PARENTS WILL RECEIVE TRAINING HOURS Please contact

Susan Powell at 910-233-6264 or Trisha Archer at 910-617-4925

for more information and/or to give your ideas for training topics.

www.nhcfca.com

Monday, May 8th 6:30pm -- 8:30pm

Chick-fil-a @ Mayfaire

ANY QUESTIONS, CALL/TEXT/EMAIL KAITLYN BOSCALJON AT (910) 616-9750

[email protected] OR

ANGIE BURMAN AT (910) 617-7850 [email protected]

Adoption Support Group

Wednesday, May 10th at 11:00am

Shelley Chambers’ Office 2505 South 17th Street,

Suite 200

Open to all of our NHC foster and adoptive families of children under the age of 12. Please feel free to invite other parents.

RSVP to Neely at [email protected]

5th—Tim Williams

6th—Eloise Mitchell 7th—Joe Williams

8th—Jennifer Brausch 9th—Clay Rogers 9th—Don Senick

10th—David Cuomo 13th—Pamela DeSantis

17th—Nancy Smith 19th—Glenda Moore

22nd—Mike Boscaljon 26th—Stacy Guite

31st—Laurel Senick

Foster Parent MAPP Training Methodist Home for Children Dates of Training: Location: _________________

Using the following scale, please answer each of the following questions. Also, please take a moment to share a specific comment about your evaluation of each question. Your comments help the trainers know exactly which training techniques are most beneficial and where we need to concentrate for improvement. 4 = completely satisfied 3 = slightly satisfied 2 = slightly dissatisfied 1 = completely dissatisfied

How satisfied are you -- + 1. With the quality of instruction? 1 2 3 4 Comments:___________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ 2. With the usefulness of this training? 1 2 3 4 Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ 3. With the pleasantness of the instructors? 1 2 3 4 Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ 4. With the instructors knowledge of the subject? 1 2 3 4 Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _ 5. With the way the instructors answered questions? 1 2 3 4 Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ _ 6. Which specific sections did you find most helpful? Why? Who was the trainer of those sections? Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ _ 7. What are your suggestions for improvement of any aspect of the training experience? Comments:____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

NC Division of Social Services and 17 Jordan Institute for Families, UNC‐CH School of Social Work Feb. 23, 2017

RELATED RESOURCES e inar iligent ecruit ent and etention o Foster and do ti e Fa ilies.* On June 23, 2017 the

NC Division of Social Services, in partnership with the Jordan Institute for Families at the UNC School of Social Work, will offer a free 90‐minute webinar for NC’s public and private child placing agencies on recruiting and retaining foster and adoptive families. After the event a recording of the webinar will be available via ncswLearn.org.

nline rientation or Pros ecti e C Foster Parents. This resource to support foster parent recruitment was developed by the NC Division of Social Services, in partnership with North Carolina’s foster care agencies and the Jordan Institute for Families at the UNC School of Social Work. This 15‐minute online orientation sends a consistent, inspiring message to families considering providing therapeutic or family foster care. Available at: http://ncswlearn.org/foster. No registration needed.

ostering C org. In March 2017 the NC Division of Social Services launched fosteringNC.org, a learning site for our state’s foster and adoptive parents and kinship caregivers.

Foster o e icensing he Keys to uccess.* This 2.5‐hour, self‐paced online course is designed to reduce the rate of incorrect or incomplete foster home licensing paperwork and to improve assessment and screening of licensing applicants.

Foster o e icensing in Child el are er ices.* This 3‐day course covers the process of licensing foster parents in a county DSS or private child‐placing agency. Topics covered include NC licensing procedures, forms, regulations, the roles of a licensing worker, the mutual home assessment process, the family assessment, MEPA, and skills for working with foster parents.

P M PP eader Certi ication.* Trauma Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanence: Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting is an 8‐day curriculum that teaches child welfare staff and experienced foster and/or adoptive parents to train foster and adoptive parent applicants. Participants learn to conduct 10 TIPS‐MAPP meetings and the mutual home assessments for prospective foster/adoptive parent applicants and how to use the other TIPS‐MAPP components, including: the family profile, and the partnership and professional development plans.

rou s x estern do tion and Foster Care ssociation FC This informal group of public and private

child placing agencies meets quarterly at the NC DSS Regulatory and Licensing Services Team offices in Black Mountain to discuss foster care and licensing issues. For more information please contact WAFCA’s President, Heather Hill‐Pavone (heather.hill‐[email protected]).

x he ecruiter s etwork. Includes a listserv of well over 100 professionals from public and private child‐placing agencies in central North Carolina. Meets quarterly in the central region of the state for training and matching of families and children. To contact this group, send e‐mail to: .

x outheastern do tion Consortiu . This is a group of public and private foster care and adoption agencies meets every other month to share information to promote adoptions through foster care. During meetings the group provides in‐service training and shares profiles of waiting children and profiles of families wanting to adopt. It also hosts an Adoption Awareness Picnic in Wilmington every November. Contacts: Alice Moore ([email protected]) and Tiffany Bickel ([email protected]).

* For more information or to register, login to your ncswLearn.org account.

Webinar: Efficiently Licensing High‐Quality Foster Parents

May 16, 2017

NC Division of Social Services and the UNC School of Social Work 1


May 16, 2017Click Here for Handouts

DHHS | DSS |North Carolina Child Welfare Section

This webinar was developed through funding from the North Carolina Division of Social Services by the Family and Children’s Resource Program, part of the Jordan Institute for Families at the UNC‐Chapel Hill School of Social Work.

About this webinar

In the future arecording of this

webinar will be available on ncswLearn.org.

2

Number of children and youth in care trending upwards since Dec. 2012

Why this Webinar?

3

Source: Management Assistance for Child Welfare http://ssw.unc.edu/ma/

Number of Children in DSS Custody Over Time in NC

Total children in DSS custody on 1/31/17: 10,535


May 16, 2017


• 100 public child‐placing agencies• 83 private child‐placing agencies

• 97 residential child care facilities (group/maternity homes)

Foster HomesAs of February 2017, NC had 6,828 licensed foster homes:– 2,617 (38.25%) were family foster homes

supervised by DSS agencies

– 3,944 (57.25%) were either family or therapeutic foster homes supervised by private agencies

– 267 (4.5%) were residential child care facilities

NC’s Foster Care Infrastructure

4

•NC needs an ample, high quality pool of foster families!

•To attract, train, select, license, and support these families there are specific things each of us can do:

–NC Division of Social Services

–Supervising agencies

–Individual child welfare professionals

That’s what this webinar is about

Why this Webinar?

5

By the end of this webinar, we hope you will be able to:

Goals for this Webinar

6

• Explain what NC DSS is doing to enhance the licensing process and to support Supervising Agencies

• Describe effective strategies Supervising Agencies are using to speed up licensing of families while maintaining an emphasis on quality/mutual assessment

• Identify one or more areas in which your agency’s practices in this area might be improved


May 16, 2017


A Special Note About Questions

• We will monitor questions via the chat box and answer them as possible throughout the webinar.

• There will also be a follow‐up document that answers questions asked during this webinar; this document will be e‐mailed to all registered participants and posted with the webinar recording.

• The webinar recording will be on ncswLearn.org and on the Family and Children’s Resource Program webpage (http://fcrp.unc.edu/webinars.asp).

77

Panelists

Moderator

Chrystal Coble

Tech Support

Phillip Armfield

John McMahon

8

Michelle Reines

Alice Moore

Jonathan Rockoff

• Update on NC DSS Efforts

• Things Supervising Agencies Can Do

– Initial Contact/Orientation

– Pre‐Service

– Linking Pre‐Service and Licensing

– Support After Licensure

• Practice Implications

• Questions and Answers

Agenda

9


May 16, 2017


Update on NC DSS Efforts

10

• Avg. time for new applications,January‐October 2016: 34 days

• Staffing prior to Oct. 2016:– 2 permanent consultants– 2 part‐time, temporary consultants– 2 full‐time processing assistants

• Oct. 2016: added 2 full‐time, permanent consultants

• Late 2016: began LEAN business improvement process for foster home licensing actions

NC DSS: Enhancing the Licensing Process

11

NC DSS Update (continued)

12

• February 2017: – Hired manager– Mgr. now based in Black Mountain

• March 2017 – present: added staff, now have…– 6 full‐time, permanent consultants– 4 full‐time processing assistants

• Avg. time for new applications,Oct. 2016‐Feb. 2017: 16 days (53% reduction)


May 16, 2017


13

NC DSS Regulatory and Licensing Services Team

Initial Contact/Orientation

14

• Immediately respond to initial inquiries

•Provide orientation in a group setting – Saves time, consistent, answers all questions

•Complete pre‐approval process– Collect info. & do home visit before proceeding with formal licensing process (training, etc.)

NC DSS Recommendations

15

INITIAL CONTACT/ORIENTATION


May 16, 2017


•Private, nonprofit agency – Based in Raleigh– 112 homes, primarily Central & Eastern NC

•FC, TFC, F2A, and private adoption

•Team: 4 Licensing Specialists who train MAPP

•Train MAPP 4x a year

Methodist Home for Children’s Foster Home Program

16

1. People email or leave message on inquiry line

2. We track key data helpful for decision making and recruitment

3. Screen inquiries with form; screened‐ins are sent info. and invited to monthly info. session

4. Info. session: families fill out short version of application and get honest picture of foster care; people submit short application at end if still interested

How It Works at MHC

17

5. Team staffs the homes6. Follow up with homes

within 2 weeks of info. session to invite to class or decline– Invitees: Even if there is a wait, they know when classes start

7. Follow up regularly until start date


• Public agency with 120 family foster/ foster to adopt homes

• 4 SWs: all teach TIPS‐MAPP, license families, do preplacement assessments, recruit foster families, manage adoption assistance, and find placements

• 4 TIPS‐MAPP certified (former) foster/adoptive parent co‐trainers

New Hanover County DSS Foster Home Program

18

• Unit averages ~23 placements/month (includes initial/moves/respite)

• In 2016: 46 new foster families licensed; 25 families closed out

• Ongoing monthly recruitment: presentations, community events, media/internet outreach


May 16, 2017


1. Inquiries come as calls, emails, walk‐ins

2. SW describes program, fills out inquiry sheet, gives family application, and sets up pre‐assessment home visit (occurs w/in 2 weeks)

3. After home visit: run criminal check, discuss any potential barriers to licensure

How It Works in New Hanover

19

4. Invite family to next TIPS‐MAPP class – next class is always scheduled – Even if there’s a wait, they know when classes start

5. Agency tracks:– All inquiries to see how people are referred– All foster homes opened, closed, and why closed


Pre‐Service Training

20

•Pre‐service is a decision‐making, mutual assessment process – Not comprehensive preparatory training

•Use an approved pre‐service curriculum– TIPS‐MAPP, Deciding Together, Pressley Ridge, or PRIDE

•Deliver pre‐service with content fidelity

‐ Ex. TIPS‐MAPP delivered as one 3 hour meeting per week

•Use foster/ adoptive parent co‐facilitator


21

PRE‐SERVICE TRAINING

TIPS‐MAPPTrauma‐Informed Partnering for

Permanence and Safety: Model Approach to

Partnerships in Parenting


May 16, 2017


• MAPP offered 4x/year (2x Greenville, 2x Raleigh)

• MAPP Prep Days • Trainers also write MHAs• On night #1, distribute checklist with due dates

• Within 2 weeks of night #1, make first home visit to assess living space, pets, etc.

• Regularly have “real” conversations with families

MHC Strategies

22

• Specialists attend certainnights to begin building relationships and rapport

• Panel Night to share real experiences intertwined with movies, case studies, etc.

• Parents complete evaluations at end of class


• TIPS‐MAPP offered 1x every quarter (4x/year)•MAPP prep days• 2 nights/week (Tue. & Thu.), 3 hr. sessions• Pass out forms during class so people can begin (physical forms, fingerprints, etc.)• Teacher communicates with 3 other SWs daily/weekly about participants

New Hanover Strategies

23

• Panel held at the end of class; try to have:– Former foster youth – GAL– Agency Attorney– FP Assoc. President – CPS and Adoption SWs

• End‐of‐class trainer evaluations completed by class members


Activity 1:

•What else could your agency do in the area of initial contact/ orientation to help with licensing high quality foster parents?

•What else could your agency do in the area of pre‐service to help with licensing high quality foster parents?

What Else Could You Do?

24


May 16, 2017


Linking Pre‐Service and Licensing

25

LINKING PRE‐SERVICE & LICENSING


26

•Mutual assessment and licensing paperwork completed by staff who facilitated pre‐service– Next best thing: meeting notes and frequent conversations between

staff; attend some sessions to begin relationships with prospective parents

• 12 Skills for Successful Fostering and Adopting handout

• Complete paperwork, home visits and consultations during pre‐service

• Use internal controls: Review all licensing actions before they are submitted to NC DSS

•Goal: submit application to NC DSS 4‐6 weeks after last night of class

•Foster Parent development plans

• Internal reviews before submitting any paperwork

MHC Strategies

27

•Use Docvault

•Specialists contact homes while licenses are being reviewed to continue relationship building



May 16, 2017


• Strong communication between TIPS‐MAPP Leader and SW for that family• Divide class evenly among SWs by 2nd week so they can begin working with family towards licensure• Goal: Submit to NC DSS w/in 30‐60 days of TIPS‐MAPP’s end• Internal review by supervisor and program manager prior to submitting to NC DSS•We do not use Docvault; but we check stateXTND report to see when families are licensed


28


Support After Licensure

29


30

•Ensure all staff are well‐versed in NCAC 70E & foster home licensing manual

•Set professional development goals with parents

•Complete processes for all subsequent actions ASAP, especially re‐licenses

SUPPORT AFTER LICENSURE


May 16, 2017


• FP development plans updated at quarterly home visits• 24‐hour support• Training:– Quarterly in‐services – Seek other options specific to parent– Safety Day training

• FCLS attend clinical staff meetings• Quarterly newsletter, advocacy board, events throughout year• Referral bonuses

MHC Strategies

31

• Send relicense paperwork to families 5 months in advance• Track initial license dates & timelines• Then: 2‐3 months; now: 1‐2 (some homes still go slow)• Prioritize fast‐moving homes• Then: ~80 homesNow: 112 and rising


• Foster/Adoptive Parent Assoc. meetings that include trainings based on foster parent needs• Newsletter• Adoption support group for foster parents who have/wish to adopt• Foster mom’s “fostering faith” support group


32

• 24‐hour support• Pair up new and experienced foster parents• Licensing SWs attend CFTs and court with foster parents if needed• Send relicense paperwork to families 5 months in advance •May, Nov., & Dec. events to celebrate Foster Care Month, Adoption Month, and the holiday season

Monthly Other


Activity 2:

•What else could your agency do in the area of linking pre‐service and licensure to help with licensing high quality foster parents?

•What else could your agency do in the area of support after licensure to help with licensing high quality foster parents?

What Else Could You Do?

33


May 16, 2017


Key Take‐Aways

34

• Strong communication is key! This includes:

‐ internal staff communication

‐ prospective foster families

•Using experienced foster/ adoptive parents as facilitators and supports

• Linking pre‐service and mutual home assessment

• 24 hour access to agency staff

•MAPP training and orientation scheduled at set intervals

• Providing timelines for when licensing components are due

Key Take‐Aways

35

36

Questions ???


May 16, 2017


• June webinar about diligent recruitment of foster and adoptive families (June 23, 90 min.)

•Orientation for NC Foster Parents (ncswlearn.org, 15 min.)

• fosteringNC.org

• Foster Home Licensing: The Keys to Success (ncswlearn.org, 2.5 hours)

Related Resources

37

• Foster Home Licensing training (3 days)

• TIPS‐MAPP Train‐the‐Trainer (8 days)

•Groups:–WAFCA–Recruiter’s Network–SE Adoption Consortium

Contact Information

38

Michelle ReinesFoster Home Licensing ManagerRegulatory and Licensing TeamNC Division of Social [email protected]

Alice MooreSocial Work SupervisorNew Hanover County Social [email protected]

Jonathan RockoffFoster Care Licensing SupervisorMethodist Home for [email protected]

NC Division of Social Services and 1 Jordan Institute for Families, UNC School of Social Work Webinar Date: May 16, 2017

Follow p Document for the Webinar


May 16, 2017

Presenters

Michelle Reines Child Welfare Services Section, NC Division of Social Services

Alice Moore New Hanover County Department of Social Services

Jonathan Rockoff Methodist Home for Children

Produced by Family and Children’s Resource Program, part of the

Jordan Institute for Families UNC‐Chapel Hill School of Social Work

Sponsored by NC Division of Social Services

e inar handouts https://ncswlearn.org/ncsts/webinar/handouts/48 webinar handouts 5 16 17.pdf

ecording if you missed the webinar or want to view it again, go to: http://fcrp.unc.edu/webinars.asp

Answers to Questions Asked During the Webinar

esponses in this document are from the NC Division of Social Services Child Welfare Services Section.

1. Technology-Related

When is NC FAST coming? Will DocVault be going away once NC FAST is in place? NC FAST will be implemented in stages, from December 2017 to September 2018. Implementation dates are based on counties. Doc ault will be phased out at that time.

Presenters, what programs do you use for tracking? (e.g., tracking how long families remain with the agency from their first inquiry) Methodist Homes uses aleidacare (http://www.kaleidacare.com/) and also Microsoft Excel. New Hanover County uses Excel as well.


Can a private child-placing agencies access the state XTND report? No.

If private agencies cannot access XTND, is there a way we could put that up for consideration? Presenters will take this question to NC DHHS administration.

Can licensing social workers have access to check on licensures, etc. or only supervisors? Supervisors and workers can check on licensing actions, but status checks cannot be done within 30 days of the licensing action submission.

2. Process, Policy, and Procedures Related to Licensing

When it comes to relicensing, is the packet due 60 working days or 60 calendar days prior to license expiration? Calendar days ‐ also, all references to timeframes in NC DSS s part of this webinar are based on calendar days.

Can an additional choice be added to the License Termination page? Sometimes we move a child from a relative home who gets licensed & we don't plan on using the FH again--the FP/FPs decline to sign the termination which results in the need for quarterly visits. We cannot change this, as it is based on Administrative Rule:

10A NCAC 70E .0707 TERMINATION

(a) Licenses terminate at the end of the two year license period unless all relicensing materials have been received by the licensing authority prior to the license expiration date.

(b) The licensing authority shall terminate a license before the end of the two year license period if requested by the foster parents.

History Note: Authority .S. 131D‐10.1 131D‐10.3 131D‐10.5 143B‐153 Eff. September 1, 2007 Amended Eff. November 1, 2009.

Is there a time difference between submitting an application via DocVault or mailing in hard copies? All applications are processed in the order they are received. There is no difference in the amount of time to process Doc ault vs. hard copies once they’re in the Black Mountain office. The only time difference is that mailing documents takes longer than sending them through Doc ault.

Is there a licensing regulation that states that a foster family cannot have three or more children in care age 3 or under? No please see NCAC 70E.1001.


What can be done to get the fingerprints and the RIL back in a timely manner? The NC Division of Social Services is very aware that agencies do not always receive timely responses when it comes to fingerprint and RIL check requests. The Division is actively working to resolve these issues.

The max is 31 homes per licensing worker, correct? The maximum is 32 homes per licensing worker at county DSS agencies. This is per 10A NCAC 70 .0501 PERSONNEL(d): Social workers or case managers serving children in family foster homes shall serve no more than 15 children. Social workers or case managers serving children in therapeutic foster homes shall serve no more than 12 children. Social workers providing foster home licensing services (licensing workers) shall serve no more than 32 foster families. Agencies providing family foster care services may combine the duties of the social worker or case manager and licensing worker and serve no more than ten children and ten foster families. Agencies providing therapeutic foster care services may combine the duties of the social worker or case manager and licensing worker and serve no more than eight children and eight foster families.

Water issues has been a huge roadblock when it comes to licensing families. Is NC going to revise or update the guidelines regarding water hazards close to home for applicants? While we recognize this is a concern, the Administrative Rules and Licensing Policies are rooted in safety for children. NC DSS has no plans to revise the rules regarding water hazards at this time.

With AD PPAs needing to be completed within 90 days, where/when in your process do you create your start date for a PPA or the "date approved for services" for your PPAs? For the most part, Methodist Homes for Children likes to see parents foster first before writing their PPAs. If a family has a pre‐adoptive placement, or has fostered in the past and is interested in adoption, MHC will begin working on the PPA. New Hanover County does the same thing. There have been times in the past where NHC wrote the PPA as part of the licensing application if there was a case where the foster child was going to be adopted fairly quickly, but that is not the norm. New Hanover County likes to see the family foster first before writing their PPA.

3. Tools and Resources

Presenters, would you be willing to share your checklist used during the beginning of preservice? Methodist Homes for Children is glad to share this checklist. ou will find it at the end of this document.

Does anyone have a pre-screening tool they would be willing to share? Methodist Homes for Children is happy to share theirs. To obtain a copy, please contact Jonathan Rockoff ([email protected]).

Is there a listserv for licensing workers across the state for ideas to be shared? We would love to hear about others’ licensing issues and how they deal with those issues. There is an NC ids listserv and a separate MAPP trainers listserv maintained by NC DSS. To oin the NC ids list, send a request to [email protected]. Certified MAPP leaders are automatically added to the


MAPP Leaders listserv when they complete their MAPP certification class. If you are a certified MAPP leader and have questions about this list, please contact inger Caldwell ([email protected]).

Can you tell us more about the Recruiter's Network? This group includes a listserv of professionals from public and private child‐placing agencies in central North Carolina. It meets quarterly in the central region of the state for training and matching of families and children. To contact this group, send e‐mail to [email protected].

Would it be possible for there to be an annual in-person meeting of licensing professionals? That way we all can share ideas and learn from and support each other. The Division’s Regulatory and Licensing Team continues to explore ways to improve the foster home licensing process. This will be added to the list for discussion and consideration.

4. Staffing Licensing

New Hanover County, how many Licensing SWs do your agency have? Four.

NC DSS recommends that the same person or people in an agency should train and license foster parent applicants. But what if the agency does not have enough staff for this? In many smaller counties licensing specialists often wear many different hats, which makes it difficult to do everything that is recommended. All of the suggestions are great. It's just a manpower issue in some counties due to many smaller counties only having one foster home licensing specialist. That is the recommendation. However, it is O if different individuals or groups do the training and licensing. If this is your arrangement, good communication is of the utmost importance.

MHC, which worker provides the 24-hour support you describe? Our division of labor is such that foster care specialists are on call 24/7, rotating on weekends. The foster care specialists supervisor steps in if a foster care specialist cannot be reached.

5. Training-Related

What is the MAPP site and how do you get access to it? There is a MAPP Leader site where you can post discussions and access videos and handouts for MAPP. For access to this site, you must be a certified MAPP leader in North Carolina. If you have questions about this site or becoming certified please contact the NC Division of Social Services’ inger Caldwell ([email protected]).

If a family had been trained in PRIDE and licensed in another state (and we obtained evidence) within a year of their license expiring and wanted to be licensed in North Carolina due to a move, would their previous PRIDE training be acceptable in moving forward with the licensure? (There would be NC specific discussions, etc.) es, if they provided proof of the training and their license expired less than a year ago.


Are there pre-service training requirements for prospective foster parents beyond the 30 hours of MAPP? Please refer to 10A NCAC 70E .1117 TRAININ RE UIREMENTS for training requirements. Therapeutic foster parents shall receive at least 10 additional hours of training in behavioral mental health treatment services.

What is the “RPC” training? RPC stands for Resource Parent Curriculum, which is itself shorthand for Caring for Children Who Have perienced Trauma: A Wor shop for esource Parents. This is a training consisting of 2‐hour sessions delivered over eight weeks. In North Carolina the Center for Child and Family Health certifies local trainers to teach this course. ou can read about the RPC here: https://www.ccfhnc.org/programs 66 2274227261.pdf. Interested in learning more Contact the Center for Child and Family Health (https://www.ccfhnc.org).

Does Together Facing the Challenge count as an approved Pre Service Training? Together Facing the Challenge is not a pre‐service training for family foster care. Rather, it is an in‐service training/consultation approach to improving practice in treatment foster care. However, it has also been approved to meet the requirements for 10 hours of additional training for a therapeutic license. To learn more visit https://sites.duke.edu/tftc/ or contact Together Facing the Challenge s developer, Maureen Murray ([email protected]).

Can you tell us more about the TIPS-MAPP site? North Carolina has a closed Intranet website for TIPS‐MAPP leaders and those in the process of becoming certified. NC DSS gives a link to the site and instructions for access to individuals completing the MAPP certification class.

Will TIPS-MAPP be offered this fall? Future offerings of TIPS‐MAPP leader certification trainings can be found by visiting www.ncswLearn.org and searching TIPS.

What is FosteringNC.org? http://fosteringnc.org/ is a new learning site for North Carolina’s foster and adoptive parents and kinship caregivers. It features free on‐demand courses, recorded webinars, helpful, short videos, links to resources, and answers to common questions asked by many resource parents.

How do you register for the June 23, 2017 webinar? To register for this webinar about recruiting and retaining foster and adoptive families, go to www.ncswLearn.org. Registration closes on June 16, 2017. Note: this event is open to North Carolina child welfare professionals from county DSS and private child‐placing agencies.


6. Miscellaneous

Of the 6,000+ foster families, how many are actively serving children? Available administrative data do not allow us to answer this question exactly, but we can come close. As stated during the webinar, in April 2017 there were 6,843 licensed foster homes in North Carolina (includes both family foster care and therapeutic foster care). The capacity of each of these homes varies in other words, each has a maximum number of children it can care for at a time, with the typical capacity ranging from 1‐5 beds. The capacity of a home depends on the placement type and other factors. In April 2017, approximately 40 of these beds were occupied 5,541 children in DSS custody. Some of the remaining 60 of the state’s foster care beds are always in use by children who are not in DSS custody (e.g., private therapeutic foster care placements).

Is there a way to know how many public agencies offer referral bonuses? And how much? This information is not available.

How do you get foster parents to participate in support groups? We have tried several times but things seem to fizzle out. Methodist Homes for Children says they have had some of the same struggles but get better results when they recruit their stronger foster parents to take a leadership role in these groups. They have seen better retention and attendance when parents themselves take ownership.

New Hanover County has also struggled with this but agrees with Methodist, that having strong foster parents take leadership roles is key. New Hanover also pays for childcare during the monthly association meetings and sets up the trainings. We get input from foster families on the types of trainings that they want to have. CORRECTION FROM WEBINAR: The spoken narrative on slide 14 for the last bullet point was incorrect. It was stated that the average number of days from October 2016 to Fe ruary 2017 was 13. This was actually the average number of days to process new licenses from October 2016 to A ril 2017 (as written on the slide).


Participant responses to the question: What else could your agency do in pre-service to help with efficiently licensing high quality foster parents? x Have a home visit within two weeks of class instead of

waiting until profiles are completed x Thorough interviews to best identify potential

placements x more involvement from the children, both birth

children and foster children x I like the idea of having the post evaluation. I use it for

MAPP, but not for Deciding Together x Initiate visits while the families are in training to cut

down the time it takes to license them. x implement a checklist with due dates on the 1st night x Our agency needs to have foster/adoptive parent

facilitators. x An end‐of‐class trainer and training evaluation. x Have home visit within the 2 weeks x Use foster parent as a co‐trainer x Implement consistent distribution of checklist

regarding requirements and due dates x Regular communication during MAPP with trainers x Training evaluation x Have an experienced foster parent co trainer x Start licensing process earlier during MAPP course x hand out paperwork for licensure during MAPP x use foster parent as co trainer x Set schedule for the year in advance x Do home visits earlier, clarify if there are other adults

in the home, issues of water on or near property x Identify safety issues in the home that would prevent

licensure, willingness to make changes x End of class evaluations. x All of our MAPPs trainers are not completing the DSS

5016, so creating a form that they could provide feedback from the session would be great.

x Have team meeting with the licensing team so we are ALL on the same page.

x Have a co trainer that is a foster parent x more involvement from the biological children x Have a foster parent as a co trainer x Enlist an experienced foster parent to co train TIPS‐

MAPP instead of only using staff x use foster parents as trainers x Set deadlines on paperwork to determine who wants

to proceed at a faster rate. x Make sure they are informed of the difference

between family foster and therapeutic. Ensure they

they know what their responsibilities as a foster parent will be to help them make better informed choices about fostering

x interviewing potential families prior to signing them up for MAPP

x Have a training evaluation, and checklist for participants

x Eliminate prospective parents based on concerns/red flags earlier on in the pre‐service process, rather than the end.

x o out and assess the home before MAPP starts. x start having home visits with families during MAPP x Set training schedule for the year x Conduct criminal background checks before starting

the class x Home assessments first x Use former Foster parent to help facilitate MAPP x have foster parents help co‐train MAPP class x Include a panel in MAPP training x One person in our agency does initial

contact/MAPP/home assessments/licensing and supervision of the homes, no co‐trainer. This SW also has a small FC caseload, completes courtesy fc cases for other counties, all step‐parents and relative adoptions, AA case manager. A co‐trainer would be extremely helpful, specifically one who has been trained for the materials.

x Also a co‐trainer would be helpful x Have a current foster parent come into MAPP to

discuss their experiences and answer questions x Shorten the application x Have a panel of foster parents, social workers and

other important persons available for questions and general information

x Using foster parents as trainers. x adequate expectations x Assess true availability of schedule to have adequate

time to properly foster the children placed in the home

x keep your head up x Utilize an experienced and trained foster parent as

your co‐trainer. x Utilize experienced parents to assist with ongoing

fostering trainings x adequate staff


Responses to the question: What else could your agency do in the area of initial contact/ orientation to help with licensing high quality foster parents?

x implement a pre‐screening process

x Implement consistent pre training home visits

x Making sure to keep continued communication with prospective families before training actually begins

x Add the pre‐assessment home visit to our process.

x Have next MAPP date ready for interested persons

x Make home visit prior to MAPP class when possible.

x Making a home visit prior to the classes beginning.

x We could do background checks sooner.

x Improve pre training contacts

x Track where referrals are generated from

x Having dates of classes scheduled

x pre assessment home visits

x pre‐MAPP home visits

x Track the data from the initial contact with families

x Have a pre‐screening process

x Check social media

x After the initial contact/orientation, I would go out and visit with the prospective foster family in their home.

x We could begin making a pre‐screening home visit, which we had not thought of doing before.

x Screening parents to make they meet minimal standards prior to meeting 1.

x o ahead and do background checks.

x Begin doing the Pre‐Service home visit at the beginning of the process.

x We call families back within 24 hours. We have monthly orientation meetings but also meet with families individually if needed.

x My agency could do monthly info sessions

x Agencies can write their own Mutual Home Assessments on families that transfer

x Involve Foster Parents in conducting the Initial Contact and Orientation

x Ensure the Pre‐Screening Tool addresses all areas that could be potential barriers to successful licensure

x Make sure we are meeting with prospective families before the first MAPP session.

x track where referrals are generated from

x Email/newsletter with ongoing stories and reminders about upcoming training

x Add pre‐assessment home visit to our process.

x be more specific with the MAPP registration in looking for issues.

x Create a checklist of all needed items for licensure

x More thorough pre‐screening process

x Come up with some type of pre screening sheet to see what road they would like to travel, adoption or foster

x Complete a pre‐training home visit

x We like the thought of doing home visit before preservice starts

x do a better ob of pre‐screening up front.

x implement pre‐screenings

x track data from initial contact and following up within 24hrs

x Provide the forms for the fingerprint process and background checks

x We offer Tips MAPP 2 times a year, if a family contacts us months before the next class we could do a better ob of keeping them engaged... I like the idea of having the MAPP class next start date ready

x pre‐screening is very important.

x Have a pre assessment of the home

x Add a group orientation date


x develop a short version of application, and monthly info sessions

x At NC ids, we serve as a portal for families who are interested in a variety of different things (adoption, foster care, kinship, both), and it would be helpful if we had info on when different agencies had upcoming orientation meetings, etc.

x Implement initial home visit and one‐on‐one (getting to know the parent(s) prior to training

x Post orientation video on website to provide additional information or include link in email for response for online inquiry

x We could do a better ob tracking information

x home visit before the family starts training

x Do better screening upfront.

x Consistent communication, provide all forms needed for background etc.

x Implement more of a pre‐approval process we do an initial screening, but home visits and complete background checks before class starts would be helpful.

x Thorough interviews to best identify potential placements

x conduct all background checks immediately

x Have a home visit before starting classes and initiate a pre‐screening check

x pre‐screening meeting

x complete a pre‐training home consultation

x Make it clear to the applicant the expectations of the program.

x Home visits before MAPP begins

x have a central place online where potential families can inquire about becoming foster parents

x I like the idea of a home visit prior to training.

x Implementing a better pre‐screening process to include a visit. Also a seminar to provide more information that will allow potential participants to make the decision if fostering is for them prior to class

x home visits prior to MAPP classes

x checklist

x Our agency could offer group orientations most information is provided individually.

x like pre‐assessment home visits

x background checks and home visits before class instead of after MAPP

x Complete pre‐screenings home visits sooner than we have.

x On line frequently asked questions

x Pre‐screenings

x come up with a prescreening check list sheet

x Set the dates of classes ahead of time

x Include an experience foster parent in orientation.

x Home visit prior to class beginning.

x Do more following up on prospective/potential foster parents and better pre‐screening

x Broaden our methods for bringing in high quality foster parents

x I like to go to them after first contact, taking the application and answering any questions up front while assessing the home environment.

x prescreen early

x Add a pre‐service home visit to the process in order to meet with the family and ask specific questions before the pre‐service begins.

x Make initial home visit prior to MAPP and devise a pre‐screening tool

x have interest meetings off site

x More in depth pre‐screening including home visits.

x Conduct a pre‐service home visit on a consistent basis

x pre screening

x Regular monthly contact up to the orientation meeting to those who inquire about becoming a FP


Responses to the question “What else works for your agency in the area of linking pre-service to licensure to help with licensing high quality foster parents?”

x developing a website

x Continued communication with the prospective foster parents as things are completed and what to expect next

x same person that trains does the licensure

x communication.

x I generally have all of the licensure information prepared and the prospective foster parents are informed of the expectation of training. During our orientation night, a list of the 10‐week course is provided and the dates/times when paperwork is due is provided so that they know what to expect and when things are do.

x We have website with Informational Meeting dates for year, and MAPP session dates for year. Also has our application and video on it.

x Follow‐Up with FP once packets have been submitted including inviting them to trainings and events

x Communicating the process clearly

x same staff from beginning to end of the licensing process

x trainer complete licensure

x Allow foster parents to provide training

x We are writing PPA/adoption home studies in lieu of mutual home assessments for our foster to adopt families

x communication

x We hold an orientation meeting prior to the first MAPP class.

x sending licenses within one month of completion of class and following up with the family as the status....remain in communication with them

x Explaining expectations clearly

x Do a quarterly newsletter, featuring an outstanding foster family

x Create foster parent development plans with families linking with 12 skills

x We have foster parent as MAPP trainers

x We have an orientation meeting before scheduling MAPP training classes with interested families

x We provide a list of possible barriers to licensure during our Informational meetings that address issues like water hazards , etc..

x Monthly newsletters

x foster parents as trainers

x Improve tracking documentation from begin to end

x Emphasize need to complete licensing paperwork immediately

x Be speedy. Also, we have our foster parents write letters to themselves on the last day of class and we mail them a week or so after they get their license. Just to remind them why they are in over their head and to see the light

x Same staff from beginning to end of training. Clear expectation and a better relationship.

x Have potential foster parents to current monthly training for already licensed foster parents.

x Follow up with parents. do not start communication, then stop

x seasoned parents for training and information sessions

x Our trainers are also the licensing workers

x also have same staff from beginning to end with applicants

x It would be great for agencies to share any training aids, questionnaires to help with license application.

x We have the same staff throughout the entire process. Our families feel comfortable with their licensing worker and this helps with initial placement of children

x I think all of these suggestions are great but if each head person that makes these decisions at each agency is not present then where do we go


Responses to the question “What else works for your agency in the area of support after licensure to help with licensing high quality foster parents?”

x monthly foster parent group training x I like the idea of a newsletter that is specific to

foster homes and the fostering faith support group x monthly trainings x foster parent support group x trainings x Always call foster parents and check on them the

day after placement, even on a weekend. x Foster parents are invited to call you any time x Continued on‐going support 24/7 x uarterly Foster Parent Meetings x Monthly support meetings and on‐call x We provide RPC training after licensure x Licensing visits the family before a placement and

two weeks after a placement. x quarterly newsletter x Monthly in‐service trainings x monthly newsletter x monthly trainings x Support group meetings based on topics requested

by our foster parents. x 24/7 support x Continue to provide clinically based training to

further develop the skills of our foster parents. x monthly training and monthly home visits for new

foster families who have their first placements. x Send a parenting tip of the month via e‐mail to all

licensed families x trainings and licensing worker being available for

families, checking in with the family to see how things are going

x on‐going trainings and training offered on‐line x Offer various support groups for Foster Parents in

addition to continuing education trainings launch a newsletter

x More trainings and monthly newsletter x referral bonuses x monthly Foster parent Training/Support groups x communication x web site or newsletter x Weekly communication with homes that have

children and at least monthly with homes that do not have children currently placed.

x Hire more staff

x Overall good communication x Monthly support group meetings/trainings x Constant contact and developing a strong

relationship. x support group. We tried that once, but the foster

parents were not active with it. Would be a good way to get them to commit to the support group.

x Schedule quarterly foster family social events in addition to monthly training opportunities.

x uarterly foster parent meetings/ trainings and annual full day training

x uarterly trainings, monthly support groups, constant communication and checking on parents

x Continued agency trainings and 24/7 support x answer phone calls when parents call and return

phone calls whether before work hours or after work hours

x Foster Parent Association Meetings/Trainings x Communication x Continued contact after PST until licensure. eep

families in the loop so they don t feel forgotten. x We have also had REAT responses to the RPC

training and recommend it for all licensed families during their first 2 year license period

x Continued communication and being available x support groups, continuous training. Observe

trends with foster parents and offer training in that area, foster parent appreciation, quarterly visits focused on parent s strengths and needs

x Ongoing communication and training x Monthly trainings. x attend CFTs when foster families are involved x etting the foster parents together more often to

build support among them. x Monthly training/ support and newsletters. x Our internal standards are when we place a child in

foster home we have a mandatory check in within 7 days with the licensing worker (similar to 7 day visit for foster care workers) and when there is a placement in the home we visit monthly verses quarterly visits

x in‐services monthly x checking in with the families to see how they feel

about the process and reassuring them that we are here to assist them


x let foster parents know I am available when they have an issue I listen in a non‐ udgmental manner.

x Monthly newsletters , and re‐licensure bonus x monthly meetings with outside trainers and

support group x Offering various trainings both at the office and on

line and attending CFT meetings whenever possible x pair up new and experience foster parents to

provide additional support x We refer them to group sessions or classes for

additional training x setting up training opportunities that help with the

existing needs of our foster parents x Implement FP mentor program x Monthly trainings and setting up foster parent peer

to peer support system i.e., link an experienced, high quality foster parent to a newly licensed home

x My licensed foster parents know that they can contact me if needed.

x quarterly visits, trainings with guest speakers, foster parent appreciation dinner

x Wake County. Licensing SWs complete monthly home visits for the first year for all newly licensed families. Bi‐monthly, and quarterly contacts for more experienced foster families.

x uarterly meetings x We offer the resource parent curriculum Caring for

Children Who Have Experienced Trauma to all foster parents and this helps with less disruptions

x monthly contact with foster parents and 2 home/face to face visits a quarter with foster parents

x We have had a tough time getting a parent support group going. I want to make that more of a priority.

x nowing how busy the foster care social workers are, when newly licensed families are not getting answers they need, I serve as a liaison to get them the answers they need. This helps keep their frustration down with the ongoing communication issues that plague us.

x effective communication skills but active listening skills as well for on‐going needed support

x We do a visit within 7 days of placement and complete a physiological safety assessment of the child

x Licensing and SW support the foster parents through the process of new placements.

x offer more trainings and meetings x Offering support, continuous training and open

communication. x Communication with foster parents and checking in

on a regular basis. x As soon as the application is submitted, start

inviting these families to the support group meetings

x monthly visits, communication, being available at all times via email/telephone/face to face contact

x RPC training x We have trainings but I would like for our foster

parents to have a support group that is easily accessible for them.

x We provide 24‐hour support to our families x Parent support group meetings. x we have a very active foster parent association and

try to offer in‐service training in addition to their monthly meetings at least quarterly / and also we have had a very active foster / adoptive parent support group, we have been unable to do it as often due to limited staff / and small county

x promptly returning call and support x Checking in with the foster parents and returning

calls in a timely manner x eeping the communication open with all the

parties involved, case managers and adoption workers we all meet once a week to discuss any issues or things that may be necessary

x quarterly trainings and banquets in May and November. We provide holiday items for children in Dec and for FP.

x Staff to family ratio that can ensure efficient and supportive relationship

x Offer more training and support groups x support groups with a therapist x you got to look at Facebook x newsletters, trainings with outside speakers,

regular in‐service and opportunities for foster parents to form relationships and support from one another. Also having a newly licensed family mentored by an experienced family

x we do not but you will find out many things about these potentials

x let the parents know that they are appreciated and needed

Methodist Home for Children

Licensing Checklist for New Foster Parents

Please turn in the following items on the due date indicated:

1. Initial Application Packet (distributed on Day 1), due on _____/_____/_____ 2. Family Profiles (distributed on Day 2), due on ____/____/____ 3. Fingerprints for each member of the home 18 and older (distributed on Day 4), due on

_____/_____/_____ 4. Out-of-State background checks for each member of the home 18 and older if they

have not resided in NC for the previous five years (distributed on Day 5), due on ____/_____/_____

Please turn the following items in by the last day of class on

_____/_____/_____

1. Medical history form for each member of the home (distributed on Day 3) ______ 2. Medical physical form for each member of the home (distributed on Day 3) ______ 3. Fire Inspection (distributed on Day 6) ______ 4. Casey Assessment (distributed on Day 12) ______ 5. Household Budget Worksheet (distributed on substance abuse night) ______ 6. Copies of valid driver’s license for each parent ______ 7. Copies of social security cards for each parent ______ 8. Copies of birth certificates for each parent ______ 9. Copies of marriage licenses and/or divorce decrees ______ 10. Copies of diplomas (GED/high school/highest level of schooling completed) ______ 11. Floor plan of home ______ 12. Proof of rabies shot for each pet ______ 13. Voided Check _______ 14. Proof of homeowners/renters and auto insurance ______

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